When it comes time to cover your windows, whether for light control or privacy, you can go in a few different directions. Between functionality, styles, colors and materials, there are a variety of factors to consider before making your purchase.

 

Blinds

Blinds are one of the most popular forms of window coverings, and probably something you’ve used if you’ve rented an apartment. They are distinguishable from other coverings in that they are slats made of a hard material. The slats are usually horizontal but are sometimes vertical, if used on a tall balcony door for example.

 

Material Options: Vinyl, Wood, Fabric, Aluminum, Bamboo

 

Pros:

• Affordable
• Moisture resistant
• Easy to clean
• Good light control

 

Cons:

• Not many color options
• Has strings that hang down
• Vinyl blinds aren’t the most attractive

 

Shades

Shades differ from blinds because they are made of a soft material, and don’t have slats. They can come as one large piece of material, which are called roller shades, like in the photo above. Another style is called cellular or honeycomb shades, which have horizontal honeycomb shaped holes in between two pieces of fabric, increasing insulation.

 

Material: Fabric

 

Pros:

• More elegant
• Come in many colors
• Durable
• Easy to pull up and down (no string)
• More Insulated

 

Cons:

• Usually more expensive
• Harder to control the amount of light
• Harder to clean

 

Shutters

Shutters have horizontal slats like blinds, that are attached to a vertical rod. They’re a harder material than blinds, and can’t be pulled partway up and down the window like with blinds.

 

Material Options: Wood, Aluminum, PVC

 

Pros:

• Best used in homes that need a lot of protection from the sun
• Good insulation, helping to reduce energy consumption
• Attractive
• Easy to clean
• Can be used inside or outside
• Last a long time

 

Cons:

• Expensive
• Can’t be pulled up part way like with blinds

 

No matter what style of window coverings you decide to go with, DI Repairs can help with installation. Contact us for your next home maintenance or renovation project.